Anne Sophie Kristiansen

Anne Sophie Kristiansen is studying international business and languages at Regent’s. She wanted to learn about different cultures, as well as the way that business is conducted in different parts of the world. She is very active in the Student Union, enjoying academic and social events.

I was set on studying in London, but I also knew that I wanted to do business and languages. Regent’s was the only university where I was able to study two languages at the same time as obtaining a business degree.

I had heard that Regent’s has an extremely diverse student body and, coming from an international background myself, I felt it would be an atmosphere I would fit into well. I believe it’s important to understand different cultural backgrounds, as well as how business functions in different parts of the world, in order to become truly successful within the business world.

Mixing with people from across the globe with different cultural backgrounds automatically makes you more open-minded. You learn to understand different ways of thinking, and it makes you more understanding. You start to become more neutral in your own culture and adapt what I would call an international culture.

"Knowledge beyond theory"

What I truly enjoy about my programme is the level of hands-on activities we are given. We learn life skills that cannot be taught from a textbook. Teachers prepare us for interviews, allow us to work with actual firms, and teach us the importance of team-building. I feel I have gained knowledge beyond theory that will prepare me for work after university.

We have done a lot of large projects and activities so far, which are always interesting because you learn a lot about yourself and the importance of being able to work with others. For example, in the first semester we went to Bramley Lakes where we were allocated teams for three days and had to work our way through multiple obstacle courses. Secondly, there was a group project lasting a week, where we were able to work with actual employers under tight deadlines. It’s projects such as these that keep students on their toes and engaged.

This summer I’m going to be working for a consultancy firm for two-and-a-half months in Shanghai. I’ll be able to develop my Chinese language skills, learn more about the culture and get work experience, all at the same time.

"A constant learning experience"

Regent’s University London can be compared with the Model United Nations. We have over 140 different nationalities, and it’s just amazing to see how well all of us interact with one another. It’s a constant learning experience.

The options available for extra-curricular activities are great. Regent’s has many societies, and if there isn’t a society you want to be a part of, then you can create your own. We also have the Student Union, which I am a part of, which gives students a lot of responsibility and a chance to make a difference at the University. It has probably been my favourite aspect of university life so far.

I end up going to most events as I have a fear of missing out! The academic events are a way of obtaining knowledge outside of classes, as well as an opportunity for networking. The social events are always fun because Regent’s comes together as one, and it’s nice to spend time with your peers outside of class.

"I don't believe there's a greater city"

There is nothing you can’t do, see or learn in London – the options are endless! I don’t believe there is a greater city for networking and studying international business.

I haven’t decided exactly what I want to do in my future career, but I know I want to be someone important, and someone who has made a difference. You’ll see me as a CEO of a company – I just don’t know which one yet!